2023 MRI Machine
Price Guide

Average cost ranges for MRI machines in 2023. The cost of delivery, installation, and first-year service coverage is included in the recommended price range for different types of MRI machines. 

Entry Level MRI

1.5T - 4 to 8 channels

$225K-$300K

GE LX, Excite II, & Excite HD

Philips Achieva & Intera

Siemens Symphony 4ch & 8ch

Highest Cost Savings

Intermediate MRI

1.5T with 8+ Channels - Basic 3.0T

$325K-$500K

GE Excite HDXT 1.5T & 3.0T

Philips Achieva (later models)

Siemens Avanto, Espree, & Trio

Premium MRI

3.0T - High Channels - Wide Bore

$500K+

GE Optima 450W & Discovery 750W

Philips D-Stream and Ingenia

Siemens Aera, Skyra, & Verio

What is an MRI Machine?

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) machine uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to take detailed images of the inside of a patient's body. An MRI machine does not use X-rays to capture images, meaning it does not produce radiation, making it the preferred imaging modality for patients who require multiple studies.

An MRI machine can produce 3D images to be viewed from different angles. 3D imaging is beneficial to physicians in making surgical plans.

What Are MRI

Scans For?

MRI machines are well-equipped to create clear images of organs, bones, muscles, blood vessels, and tissue. Facilities may use an MRI machine to diagnose patients and assess tumors, soft tissue injuries, joint injuries, spinal injuries, and internal organ damage.

The brain, spinal cord, nerves, muscles, and ligaments appear more clear with an MRI scan as opposed to a standard X-ray or CT scan. During an MRI scan, a patient will lie on a table that goes into the tunnel-shaped machine. During the scan, the patient must stay absolutely still to ensure clear images. MRI scans are painless and can take upwards of 90 minutes to conduct a study.

 

Which MRI Price Tier

Is Right for You?

Selecting the best MRI system for your facility is not a one-size-fits-all process.

Watch this brief video breakdown to see which of the pricing tiers above offers the scanning capabilities, patient comfort, and serviceability you need.

 

Entry-Level MRI

1.5T

4-channel & 8-channel

Some open models

Intermediate Level MRI

8-channel system

Enhanced software options

Improved coil set

Premium Level MRI

70cm bore (wide bore)

Digital Imaging

Improved signal/noise ratio

What are the different types of MRI?

Learn the difference between closed-bore, open-bore, wide-bore, and extremity MRI. 

siemens-aera-1.5t

Closed MRI

A closed-bore MRI is the most commonly used among all MRI options, and has the most powerful field strength.

The typical closed-bore MRI has a magnetic strength of 1.0T through 3.0T with a bore diameter of 60 cm.

However, the clarity of studies on closed systems is usually much stronger.

Open MRI Block Imaging

Open MRI

An open MRI will have two flat magnets positioned over and under with a large space between them for the patient to lie in.

This configuration keeps the space open on two sides and alleviates the claustrophobia many patients experience.

Among these systems are generally .2T and .3T magnets with a few systems as high as .7 or even 1.0T.

ge-optima-450w

Wide Bore MRI

A wide-bore MRI has a wider tunnel opening compared to a closed-bore MRI. 

This creates more space allowing for larger patients to be scanned, and a lessened chance of feeling claustrophobic. 

The typical wide-bore MRI has a 70cm bore and a 1.5T magnet.

Extremity MRI Block Imaging

Extremity MRI

An extremity MRI scans arms, legs, hands, and feet.

Patients can enjoy a more comfortable experience for scans and technicians do not have to sacrifice image quality.

Extremity MRI magnets range .2T to 1.5T.

 

Three Types of MRI Machines Compared: Closed MRI, Open MRI, Wide-Bore MRI

Which MRI scanner is right for you? In this short video Steve Rentz, an MRI expert, compares closed, open, and wide-bore MRI machines in patient comfort and magnet strength.

 

More MRI Resources

Visit the Block Imaging learning center for more MRI-related blogs, videos, and guides.

 

FREE MRI Buyer's Guide 

Use this step-by-step guide to successfully start planning your next MRI project. 

Discover how to answer the 3 most important MRI buying questions:

  • Which MRI scanner is best for me?
  • How can I know I'm getting a good MRI system?
  • How much will this cost?

Click the button below to become an MRI expert - no contact information is required!

Click here to download your guide 

MRI Buyers Guide
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